Thai Politicians Pledge Rider Protection Laws at Islamic Event
Thai politicians pledged to introduce worker protection legislation for motorcycle delivery riders at an Islamic event in Bangkok, with a draft Platform Labor Promotion and Protection Act expected to reach parliament within weeks.
On September 13, Police Colonel Thawee Sodsong, Thai People's Party list member and party leader, along with Deputy Party Secretary-General Thananya Sethathirat and advisor Muhammad Rusdi Sheikh Harun, attended the first Mawlid gathering of 1448 AH at Manafihul Islam Mosque in the Khlong Kaja area of Bangkok's Bang Kapi district. The event brought together hundreds of motorcycle delivery riders from three southern border provinces living in the Ramkhamhaeng area to network, share concerns, and maintain their Islamic and cultural traditions despite living far from home.
Thawee told the gathering that Prophet Muhammad is an important religious figure revered worldwide and an example of creating peace for humanity. He said the Thai People's Party has listened to rider concerns through forums at Ramkhamhaeng 53 and 81, and is committed to bringing peace and prosperity to the southern border provinces within one to two years. "Creating peace requires dialogue and giving everyone space to exchange ideas and shape their own futures regarding governance and living together," he said.
The party is currently drafting the Platform Labor Promotion and Protection Act, based on International Labour Organization Convention 193 and incorporating approximately 160 provisions reflecting rider feedback. Thawee said the legislation will differ from proposals by the Labor Ministry and other parties because it stems from direct consultation with riders. The bill is expected to be submitted to parliament within the month.
Thawee emphasized that riders drive Bangkok's economy and deserve respect and dignity. He drew on the Prophet's teachings that all humans are servants of thought and wisdom, and that thoughts shape words, words shape actions, and actions shape character. "If we gain thought and wisdom, they become our guides," he said.
The event was conducted simply and warmly, with riders from the three southern provinces sharing prayers and local food including duck curry and shrimp paste relish. Mawlid, or Mawlidinnabi, is an important Islamic tradition commemorating the birthday of Prophet Muhammad in the month of Rabi' al-awwal.
